Slow Accumulation and Elimination of Diazepam and Its Active Metabolite With Extended Treatment in the Elderly.

Age-related changes in disposition of diazepam and its principal active metabolite, desmethyldiazepam (DMDZ), during and after extended dosage with diazepam were studied in healthy volunteers. Eight elderly subjects (ages 61-78 years) and 7 young subjects (21-33 years) received 2.5 mg of diazepam twice daily for 15 days.

The problem of medical-psychiatric illness in the homeless and its occurrence in the midst of a viral pandemic: A commentary.

This article has the purpose of examining the problem of getting help for the medical-psychiatric-substance use group of "homeless" people on the streets of our cities, who refuse treatment. The problem has gradually worsened since closure of state hospitals and subsequent lack of community resources. It has been stalemated, in part, by advocates, who argue for personal autonomy and freedom rather than involuntary diagnosis and treatment over the life of these people.

COVID-19, interferons, and depression: A commentary.

An option currently being explored for the treatment of COVID-19 is the use of interferons (INFs), either alone or in combination with other antiviral agents. INFs are known to shift the metabolism of tryptophan (TRP) away from its role as a precursor of serotonin. For some patients, reduction in TRP levels may either expose an underlying vulnerability to depression or trigger a de novo episode of depression.

COVID-19 and Depression.

The COVID-19 pandemic embodies overwhelming stresses-unemployment, death, and isolation, among others. When called upon, clinicians must try to sort out demoralization from depression. This commentary discerns the characteristics of demoralization versus depression, and suggests solutions for both, together with a cautionary word on the use chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine in patients with COVID-19.